Gareth Southgate and Leeds United players special guests as West Yorkshire hospice Xmas party

They handed out presents to children at Martin House Children's Hospice in Wetherby

Josuha Guilavogui, Ilia Gruev and Illan Meslier meet families at the Martin House Christmas Party
Author: Matt SoanesPublished 24th Dec 2024

Former England boss Gareth Southgate has joined three Leeds United players in spreading a bit of festive cheer at a West Yorkshire Hospice.

He, along with Whites starts Josuha Guilavogui, Illan Meslier and Ilia Gruev, pais a special visit to Martin House Children’s Hospice for Christmas celebrations.

It was hosted by Bowcliffe Hall in Bramham

The event included an elf disco, with staff dressed up as Disney characters, a Polar Express themed crafts room, pick and mix, and a Santa’s grotto.

Families got the chance to meet the sports stars, after the group handed out gifts.

Martin's House cares for young people with life-shortening conditions while also providing ongoing support to families.

Clair Holdsworth, chief executive officer at Martin House, said: “The family Christmas party is one of our favourite days – it’s so special to give families these incredible memories, particularly when we never know if this will be the last Christmas some of them get to spend together.

“We’d like to thank Gareth and Leeds United for coming along to sprinkle a little extra magic on the day and do our amazing team at Martin House for helping us to spread some festive cheer with families.”

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